Former Hurricanes First-Round Pick Julien Gauthier Among Two Players Placed on Waivers

Waiver activity has slowed considerably in the early going of the 2024-25 season following an insane off-season in which up to 50 players were placed on waivers in a single day. Elliotte Friedman's most recent update indicates that New Jersey and New York have each placed one player on waivers, bringing the total to just two.

Julien Gauthier, a former first-round draft pick, joined the Islanders a season ago and had a strong season, scoring five goals and nine points in 27 games. He also played 17 games with the Bridgeport Islanders, the team's AHL affiliate. He was placed on waivers on Sunday after playing in just one of the team's five games this season and scoring zero points in that one appearance, suggesting that's where he'll end up for the 2024-25 season.

In addition to Gauthier, Adam Beckman, a former third-round pick who was acquired by the Devils in the off-season after playing for the Minnesota Wild for the previous five years, was placed on waivers by New Jersey.

Despite successful years in the AHL, the team decided it was best to let go of the gifted young forward after the 23-year-old only contributed two assists in 11 games with the team last season in Minnesota. The Devils, who haven't played for them this season, probably view him as a depth forward in the AHL as well, but he might be a fascinating addition to a rival squad.

In the end, the NHL hasn't had many significant waiver days lately. However, keep a careful watch on these two players as they might be good additions for teams searching for depth up front.